FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What makes HipStory different from another tour?We explore the secretive, scandalous and gritty history that you want to hear. Stuff that other tours try to hide. We tease out the most ridiculous history while making it relevant and relatable to our tour participants. Tours are planned and intertwined with activities to encourage retention through gamification while allowing us to get at the real stuff through professional, talented HipStorians.

What is a HipStorian?A professionally trained, talented, hip guide that can tell you some cool stories. Meet our HipStorians here!

Are the tours public or private?This depends on the tour/experience. The Downtown Kingston day or night experiences will be public, but the Bellevue House experience will be private.

Can locals benefit from the tour?Heck yes! Many locals don't know much about the history of their cities and take it for granted. We invite locals to come check out these tours.

Do I need to book a tour in advance?You must book your experience in advance as our tours typically sell out quickly. To ensure that you are able to book at the time you want, please book as far in advance as possible. You can book online on our website, or by walking into our headquarters.

Do you offer private or group tours?Yes! Contact us to learn more.

Do you offer any tours for children and/or teenagers?We offer tours for children and teens, and include a lot of activities to keep them entertained. We will deliver the history information in a way that your children will not even know they’re learning! Contact us to learn more.

What is your refund policy? Once you book your experience, you have until 48 hours prior to the booked time to reschedule your tour. Otherwise, tickets are non refundable.

Are gift certificates available? Yes! They make a great gift. Buy a gift certificate here.

Is there an age limit on your tours?For the nighttime experience, participants must be 19+ as the tour will take participants through various bars and pubs in downtown Kingston. For other experiences and tours, there isn’t an official age limit. The content of the tour is meant to appeal to those that are older than the age of 16. Parents should use their own discretion when deciding whether or not to bring their children to a public tour.

Are the tours accessible? Guests will have the opportunity to sit during a few stops on the tour, however there is a lot of standing and walking.

What should I wear?Dress for the weather. Tours will take place rain or shine.

Does the HipStorian accept gratuities?Instead of accepting gratuities, we accept donations for local charities. Please feel free to give a donation to your HipStorian in lieu of a tip.

Is there parking near the tour meeting point?There is public parking close to the meeting point, either on the street or in a parking lot. The cost ranges from $1-$1.50 per hour. Parking is free after 5:30 PM (unless there is “event parking” for $4.00- signs will be posted).